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As a lifelong horse lover and caretaker, I’ve always prioritized my horse’s health and comfort. Like many animals, horses can suffer from both anxiety and pain, especially as they age or experience injuries, stress from transport, or changes in their environment. After trying various traditional methods to soothe my horse with anxiety and pain, I turned to CBD as a natural and supportive alternative. What followed was a journey that transformed not only my horse’s behavior but also my approach to equine care.
In this blog post, I’ll share my personal experience with using CBD, explain why it’s gaining traction among equestrians, and answer some common questions horse owners have about its use.
Understanding Equine Anxiety and Pain
Horses are incredibly sensitive animals. Stress from travel, separation from companions, unfamiliar environments, or chronic pain from joint issues or injuries can lead to behavioral problems, reduced performance, and a poor quality of life. My own gelding, Thunder, began showing signs of distress — pacing, restlessness, and visible discomfort during grooming and saddle fitting.
Veterinary exams ruled out severe illness but confirmed mild arthritis and general anxiety, likely worsened by changes in our training environment. Rather than increase pharmaceutical medications, I began exploring natural options like CBD for a horse with anxiety and pain.
Why I Chose CBD for My Horse
CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the hemp plant. It’s known for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties. While widely used in humans and dogs, CBD has recently gained popularity in the equine world — and for good reason.
Veterinary studies and anecdotal evidence suggest CBD may help horses:
- Reduce stress and calm anxious behaviors
- Ease pain associated with joints, hooves, or injury
- Improve recovery after workouts or competitions
- Support immune and digestive health
Given these potential benefits, and with guidance from an equine vet, I decided to try a high-quality equine CBD oil specifically formulated for horses.
Our CBD Journey: Dosage, Routine, and Results
I started Thunder on a 5000mg CBD oil tincture, giving him 50mg orally twice per day. I mixed it into his grain to make administration easy and stress-free.
Week 1:
- Slight improvement in mood
- Reduced pacing in the pasture
Week 3:
- Noticeably calmer before trailering
- More responsive and focused during training
Week 6:
- Less stiffness in the hindquarters during warm-up
- No signs of digestive upset or side effects
Over the course of a few months, Thunder’s quality of life noticeably improved. His anxiety subsided, and the discomfort that once hindered his movement became more manageable. CBD didn’t replace vet care or joint supplements — but it did enhance our holistic care approach.
Scientific Support for CBD in Horses
While research is still emerging, early studies and equine case reports show promise. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in horses, which helps regulate mood, inflammation, and pain.
CBD’s anti-inflammatory action is particularly helpful in managing arthritis, tendon injuries, and back pain. Additionally, its calming effect helps reduce cortisol levels and nervous behaviors without sedation.
Veterinarians recommend using equine-specific CBD products that are third-party tested and THC-free (or less than 0.3% THC), as horses can be sensitive to additives and impurities.
5 FAQs About Using CBD for a Horse with Anxiety and Pain
Yes, when using products designed for equine use and given in proper doses. Always consult your veterinarian before starting.
Some horses respond within days, while others may take 2–4 weeks. Consistency is key.
Check with your event’s governing body. Some organizations prohibit CBD, even if it’s legal, due to drug testing rules.
CBD oil or pellets are ideal. Oils allow for precise dosing and faster absorption.
CBD typically calms without sedating. However, each horse responds differently. Start with a low dose and observe.
Final Thoughts
Helping my horse with anxiety and pain through CBD has been one of the most impactful decisions I’ve made as an owner. CBD provided Thunder with a natural, gentle form of relief that worked with our existing care plan rather than replacing it. If you’re considering CBD for your horse, prioritize quality, consult a knowledgeable vet, and monitor your horse’s response closely.
Our equine companions deserve to feel their best — and sometimes, nature provides the tools we need.
